In the final shopping days before Christmas, the California Highway Patrol conducted a successful statewide enforcement operation targeting organized retail crime, ensuring safer shopping experiences for communities across California.
The operation, conducted on Friday, December 20, led to:
- 117 arrests for organized retail theft and related offenses.
- The recovery of 767 stolen items valued at $38,290.70, including clothing, shoes, and fragrances.
- The seizure of two illegal firearms and the recovery of three stolen vehicles.
This collaborative effort involved 10 California law enforcement agencies and 56 retail partners, enhancing in-store security and improving crime reporting. Increased law enforcement presence in high-traffic shopping areas also helped deter further crimes.
Participating agencies included the Hemet Police Department, Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Glendale Police Department, Bakersfield Police Department, Woodland Police Department, Walnut Creek Police Department, Livermore Police Department, and San Ramon Police Department.
Since the Organized Retail Crime Task Force began in 2019, the CHP has been involved in over 3,200 investigations, arresting more than 3,500 suspects and recovering nearly 1.3 million stolen goods valued at $51.3 million.
As the holiday season winds down, the CHP remains committed to working with businesses and communities to combat retail theft year-round. If you have any information about organized retail theft operations, please contact the CHP.
The CHP’s mission is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.
